Tuesday, 21 December 2010

Volkswagen has developed a new and original take on the famous Hackney Carriage aimed at handling some of the concerns of modern urban motoring. It combats emissions and space restrictions with its compact size of 3.73 metres and has a range of 186 miles between charges of its 45kW/h lithium-ion batteries. It has a top speed of up to 74 miles per hour.

It has a capacity of two passengers plus luggage (which is stored beside the driver) and has the City of London's coat of arms on its doors and a silver Union Jack emblazoned on the roof. It is based upon the forthcoming city car titled “Up” but it is yet to fully meet the legal requirements that regulate Hackney Carriages. However, with EU regulations on emissions tightening all the time, the traditional taxi is on borrowed time and a lot of manufacturers are gearing up for a share of the future market.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson released proposals on how to combat emissions of the traditional taxis and improving London’s air quality on the same day as this new concept was launched in the capital.

At present, no launch date has yet been officially specified. 2013 has been mooted as a possible date for production but with green campaigns regularly in the news, it can only be a matter of time.

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Good Garage Scheme Car Servicing in Great Britain

Using the Good Garage Scheme, you'll find local independent garages you can trust. Be assured every garage listed on the Good Garage Scheme performs car servicing to a strict standard and will have your best interests at heart.

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Car Servicing Nationwide - What you should expect.

Car Service - What you should expect ?

When organising a car service, it's important that you establish what the service includes.

Some garages will change only your oil filter, others will carry out a full service. A good garage will follow a service checklist and give you a copy of that completed checklist as confirmation of a job well done. Good Garage Scheme members carry out your service incorporating the Industry Standard Service Checklist.

Does your car need a service?

Most modern cars only need a service once a year, but older cars require a service once every six months. The manufacturer's service handbook will set what is best for your car. The type of service you need will also be affected by how you use your car. For example, lots of short journeys where the engine does not have a chance to warm up properly will probably mean more frequent oil and filter changes.

Running faults and repairs

Ask to speak to a mechanic or technician about the problem. Explain the problem in as much detail as you can. If you can, include when the problem occurs, for example only when engine is cold, or after the vehicle has been left standing.

Collecting your car

Ask to view the old replaced parts and check that

• The bill is for the amount agreed, or is not significantly more than any estimate you were given.

• The work and parts are fully itemised (this will be proof of purchase if a problem occurs as a result of the work or replaced part fails)

• The service record book has been stamped with the garage stamp

Rather than replacing parts that are not fully worn out, a good garage will advise you when they will probably need replacing, based on the way you use your car.